Sidney Crosby left out, fans clash over Alex Ovechkin’s playoff push

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 22, 2025, 14:19 IST

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As Alex Ovechkin enters the playoffs and Sidney Crosby sits out, the debate over who is the better player reignites. Crosby's all-around game and higher scoring rate are weighed against Ovechkin's record-breaking goal totals and durability. With both players still active, their contrasting styles continue to define a generation of hockey.

Sidney Crosby left out, fans clash over Alex Ovechkin’s playoff push

Credit: Getty Image

The NHL playoffs are here, but Sidney Crosby won’t be part of them. The Pittsburgh Penguins missed the cut. Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals are moving on. With Crosby out and Ovechkin still chasing another title, fans are once again asking the same question, who’s the better player?

Crosby’s Career Hindered by Injuries

CROSBY & OVECHKIN score back-to-back!!

Many fans argue that Crosby had the more complete game. He’s known for excelling in every area on the ice. He has more assists, a higher scoring rate, and strong leadership. But injuries slowed him down. Several concussions kept him out during key seasons. In those shortened years, he still led in points. Many believe he would have won more MVPs and titles if he stayed healthy.

Even though Crosby never won the Calder Trophy, he racked up almost every major NHL award. But that one loss, in his rookie year, still stings for his supporters. Ovechkin won it by scoring slightly more, despite Crosby’s strong debut season.

Ovechkin’s Records Speak for Themselves

Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals battles for a puck against Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins

Credit: Getty Image

Ovechkin now holds the all-time NHL goals record. He also leads in power-play goals, game-winners, and 40-goal seasons. He’s second to none when it comes to scoring. He also ranks high in hits, showing off his physical side. Many fans see him as the most durable and consistent force in the league.
Critics, though, point to his high shot volume. Ovechkin has taken more shots than any other player in NHL history. Some say it’s more about quantity than skill. Crosby, by comparison, has scored more efficiently with fewer attempts.
Still, Ovechkin’s numbers are historic. His ability to keep producing after so many seasons sets him apart. With another playoff run ahead, he’s not done yet.
Read more: Sam Bennett’s $30 Million Net Worth: How the Panthers Star Built His Fortune

Legacy Debate Far From Over

Both players are still active. Crosby may return next season and lead the Penguins back into contention. Ovechkin has a chance to add another Stanley Cup to his name.
The debate over who’s better won’t end soon. One thrives on all-around mastery. The other dominates the scoreboard. As fans continue to argue, one thing is clear, this rivalry still defines an era of hockey.

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About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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